Each state has its own set of indigenous snakes, venomous and harmless included. In Tennessee, we have 34 species that make their home within the state. Of those 34, only 7 are commonly spotted, and even less are actually venomous: the timber rattlesnake, pygmy rattlesnake, western cottonmouth, and copperhead. These 4 natives are snakes you definitely don’t want on your property, and you’ll need experienced snake catchers to help with professional snake removal. Here’s what you need to know about snake identification and when you should worry.
Knowing When You Need Snake Removal Services
If you aren’t experienced with local herpetology, distinguishing native snake species can be quite the task. The good news is that you shouldn’t worry too much about memorizing all 34 local species– just the 4 that are actually dangerous. Snakes have a variety of distinguishable features to look out for. Venomous snakes, specifically, have several tells that will help you pinpoint their exact species. When you’re considering calling in snake catchers, try to determine:
- Shape of the head (round or triangular?)
- Coloring/patterns (what does it look like?)
- Shape of pupils (round or slitted?)
- Behavior (aggressive, docile, rattling?)
Why Certain Traits Require Snake Removal Services
Although each venomous snake has distinctive features, there are some common characteristics that they share. Even if you aren’t able to get a good look at the snake, knowing at least one feature for certain can help you discover if the snake is a threat. This information can help you make a more informed phone call to a professional.
It’s better to request professional snake removal. Our experts are well-trained on snake identification, behaviors, and proper handling and removal. We do not want you to risk your safety in order to get a better look at your pest.
If you are able to safely examine the snake, keep these distinctions in mind:
- Venomous snakes typically have triangular shaped heads with bulging around the jaw. This bulging is due to their venomous sacks. Non-venomous snakes usually have skinnier heads since they do not have venom.
- The 4 types of venomous snakes in Tennessee have distinctive coloring and patterns. Keep in mind, this is not a completely accurate way to determine if the snake is a match. Several species of snakes look similar to each other, but it’s a good way to narrow down your options.
- Venomous snakes, similar to cats, will have vertically slitted pupils. Harmless snakes will have regular, rounded eyes. Although this is an easy way to decide whether to be worried about a snake, having close enough proximity to examine the snake’s eyes is not recommended.
- Venomous snakes sometimes have telling behaviors. For instance, everyone knows a cobra will fan out when it feels threatened. The rattlesnake may also “rattle” its tail to warn of its presence. If you hear this type of sound coming from a snake on your property, it’s time to get in contact with professional snake catchers.
Identifying Timber Rattlesnakes
Typical adult timber rattlesnakes are heavy-bodied and large, sitting at about 3 to 5 feet long. Their heads are triangular and thick, sometimes with a diagonal line through or behind the eyes. They are distinguishable by their series of large, black chevron crossbands that descend down their tan or pinkish/gray body. The center of the back is colored by a reddish-brown stripe, and they have a typically all-black, rattled tail. You will often see their tail raised above the ground.
Identifying Pygmy Rattlesnakes
Pygmy rattlesnakes are usually described by their thick, grayish bodies. They are a smaller rattlesnake; adults mature at about 1-2 feet in length. Their backs and sides are covered in rows of dark gray/black, irregular blotches. These blotches are especially dark on the back and commonly separated with a reddish-brown stripe down the back, similar to the timber rattlesnake. Pygmy rattlesnakes have dark bands across their eyes down towards the corner of their jaws. The tail is marked by their signature rattles, although the rattle is prone to breaking off.
Identifying Western Cottonmouths
Cottonmouths mature at about 3-4 feet long. Their bodies are thick and bulky, with short and equally thick tails. Its body does taper at the neck, with their heads being noticeably wider than their necks. Cottonmouths have arrow-shaped, triangular heads, with visible pits near their eyes and nostrils. Adults have a greenish tail, while babies have a more yellow tail. Their bodies start off tan/brown with dark bands across the back. As the snake ages, the body grows more uniformly dark brown/black. Adults have white markings that extend beneath each of their eyes to the corners of their jaws. They may also have pale, white lines above their eyes.
Identifying Copperheads
Copperheads are medium-sized, thickly set snakes. They mature at about 2-3 feet long. As the name suggests, they are characterized by a triangular, copper-red head. They have distinctive “hourglass” crossbands that are dark brown, wide on the sides, and narrow on the back’s center. Although their body color does vary, it is typically gray or light brown. Young copperheads resemble adults, but they do have bright yellow tails.
Snake Removal Services Near You
Complete Animal Removal has years of experience dealing with venomous and non-venomous snake removal. Our snake catchers are well-equipped to humanely remove any and all snakes on your property. Especially if you suspect your property might be home to a dangerous species, contact us today for expert removal services.
